- US President Trump signed an order lifting most sanctions on Syria effective July 1.
- The lifted sanctions are expected to present an economic boost for the country.
- Certain restrictions on individuals linked to the Assad regime will still apply.
- The Secretary of State has been directed to support initiatives for a stable Syria.
- US sanctions revocation aligns with the actions of the UK and EU as well.
US sanctions lifted, but not all restrictions are gone
US Lifts Sanctions on Syria, Seeking Economic Growth President Trump on Monday officially signed an executive order to lift major sanctions against Syria, which will take effect on July 1. This decision opens up potential economic opportunities for a nation long affected by punitive measures. However, sanctions against individuals and entities closely associated with the Assad regime, as well as those linked to terrorist organizations and human rights violations, will remain intact.
Objectives include security and economic support
Focus on Stability and Accountability in Syria The rationale behind the relief is articulated by Trump who stated the intention is to support a “united Syria that does not harbor terrorist organizations and preserves security for its diverse religious and ethnic groups.” Concurrently, the executive order mandates that the Secretary of State take necessary steps to enhance policy objectives through the United Nations to bolster a stable Syria. As a result of this executive action, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has removed sanctions on 518 individuals previously designated under these restrictions.
Broad shifts in international sanctions landscape
Continued Oversight and Future Considerations It is also noteworthy that this order allows for the suspension of sanctions under the Caesar Act, which prohibits foreign involvement in supplying support or goods to the Assad government. Still, points of accountability regarding war crimes remain crucial. As outlined in the Caesar Act, President Trump can suspend these sanctions for up to 180 days, contingent upon the Syrian government making verifiable progress in addressing issues of accountability and justice for victims. The lifting of sanctions follows a broader retreat by Western nations, which asserts that previous sanctions might have impeded reconstruction efforts, while the United Nations has called for genuine political inclusion during this tumultuous transition.
The recent lifting of sanctions by the United States represents a significant shift in policy towards Syria, aiming to foster economic growth while maintaining certain restrictions. Although this executive order has been welcomed by the Syrian government, concerns remain about the true extent of political change, especially against the backdrop of ongoing human rights issues and the need for meaningful political participation among the citizens.